Bill Cosby claims to have had a "wonderful time" performing in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, last night, Jan. 7. It was his first stand-up gig since last November, when detailed allegations of sexual assault first appeared again in the press. It is not the first time Cosby has been accused, but the allegations are really sticking this time around. Last night's performance was met with cheers as well as several protesters.
When Cosby took the stage at the Center in the Square theater, about a third of the seats were empty in what would normally have been a sell-out crowd. While an announcer warned that there could be disruptions, there was not a single heckler in sight. The audience was polite and Cosby ended with a partial standing ovation. He also thanked the crowd for showing up and supporting him.
While, all things considered, this show was a success, it is nothing compared to the kind of showing the comedian usually gets for one of his stand-up gigs. This show, as well as two others in Ontario, were booked before the scandal began, and when Cosby did not back out and cancel the dates, the venues were not going to risk doing it and being sued for breech of contract.
What remains to be seen is whether or not Cosby will be able to book any new shows for this year. Several dates have already been canceled in the U.S. and we are not hearing any new ones being added to his schedule as of yet.
Do you think the shows he plays over the next two nights will be similar to last night's with mild protester presence and no interruptions, or is he heading for a really embarrassing encounter eventually? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below.
